Kodagu Tourism Sector Organizes District-Wide Cleanliness Initiative
In a significant move to enhance the region's appeal, stakeholders from Kodagu's tourism industry have announced a major clean-up drive scheduled for Monday. The initiative, operating under the Swachh Abhiyan banner, will focus extensively on temples, popular tourist destinations, and key administrative centers across the district and taluk levels.
Meeting Led by Assistant Commissioner Nitin Chakki
The decision was finalized during a crucial meeting presided over by Assistant Commissioner Nitin Chakki, who also serves as the in-charge Deputy Director of Tourism. Chakki emphasized that the primary goal is to prioritize cleanliness at both tourist hotspots and pilgrim centers throughout Kodagu. He highlighted that this drive is being organized through a collaborative effort involving numerous government and non-government organizations, all united under the theme of "Swacha and Sundara Kodagu." Chakki made a heartfelt appeal for widespread community participation at the local level to ensure the initiative's success.
Comprehensive List of Sites Targeted for Clean-Up
The cleanliness campaign will encompass a wide array of notable locations across the district. Key sites identified for the drive include:
- Holy places such as Talacauvery, Bhagamandala, Chelavara Falls, Abbi Falls, and Madikeri's Omkareshwar Temple.
- Historical landmarks like Nalknad Palace, the King's Tombs, Raja Seat, and Madikeri Fort.
- Adventure and recreational spots including Dubare River Rafting, Cauvery Nisargadhama, Harangi reservoir and park, the Elephant Camp, Backwater adventure sports areas, and Chikli Hole in Kushalnagar taluk.
- Natural attractions in Somwarpet taluk, such as Honnamma lake, Makkala Gudi Betta, Kote Betta, Surlabbi Waterfall, and Mallalli Waterfall.
- Additional sites in Ponnampet taluk, like Barapole River Rafting and Irpu Waterfalls.
Key Stakeholders and Their Contributions
The meeting, held on Friday, saw active participation from prominent tourism sector leaders who provided valuable suggestions. Attendees included:
- Dinesh Cariappa, President of the Kodagu Hotel and Resort Association.
- Monthi Ganesh, President of the Homestay Association.
- Vasantha, President of the Tour and Travel Association.
- Nagendra Prasad, President of the Kodagu District Chamber of Commerce.
Other notable participants were Tahsildar Sridhar, FMC College Principal Raghava, Dubare River Rafting Association President Uthappa, Tourism Department Consultant Jathin, chief officers of local bodies, panchayat development officers, principals from various colleges, and executive officers of multiple temples. Their collective involvement underscores the broad-based support for this environmental effort.
This coordinated clean-up drive aims not only to improve the aesthetic and hygienic standards of Kodagu's tourist attractions but also to foster a sense of community responsibility and sustainable tourism practices in the region.
